“The challenge of re-configuring the entire facility — while the business stayed open and operational — was accomplished through the cooperation of the committed staff at Baker Book House and Integrated Architecture,” said John Boonstra, a partner at Orion Construction, which managed the work.

Integrated Architecture designed the project for Baker, which was founded in 1939 by Herman Baker as a seller of used books.

Baker Book House now also features a café and fireside reading area, a community room, a children’s play area, an information desk and a space where authors can talk about their works, which makes the shop as much of a gathering place as a bookstore.

The bookstore has a neutral color palette to provide a backdrop for the books and merchandise, and spots of red/orange and green are used to create interior landmarks for the information desk and café.

“Baker Book House has a rich history in our community,” said Gina Paul, Integrated Architecture project manager. “Their decision to invest in creating a fresh image, new logo and a vibrant place for the community to gather and enjoy demonstrates a commitment to their customers and staff, as well as a desire to keep the ‘book business’ alive and viable in our city.”

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